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The ongoing dispute between Israel and Egypt regarding the closure of the Rafah border crossing is intensifying, impacting the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid to Gaza. This situation has led to a surge in food prices and a scarcity of fuel, worsening the already dire aid situation in the region. Hundreds of trucks carrying essential supplies have been unable to reach Gaza, affecting the lives of many in need of medical care and those trying to escape the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Israel has blamed Egypt for hindering aid delivery through the Rafah crossing, while Egypt has pointed to Israel’s military presence in the area as the main obstacle. The escalating conflict around Rafah has further complicated the situation, with Israel seizing control of the Gaza side of the border last week.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, has called on European counterparts to pressure Egypt to allow the continued flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He emphasized the importance of preventing a humanitarian crisis in the region and highlighted Egypt’s role in facilitating aid delivery.
In response, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, has refuted Israel’s claims, citing concerns for the safety of aid workers and truck drivers due to Israel’s military operations in the area. The dispute has led to a stalemate, with neither side willing to back down.
Despite international pressure, Israel initiated a limited invasion of Rafah, further complicating the situation. The closure of the crossing has raised questions about the safety of aid workers and the feasibility of aid delivery in the conflict-affected region.
Efforts to involve the Palestinian Authority in managing the crossing have faced resistance, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The standoff continues as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.
Contributed by Aaron Boxerman.
— Reporting from Jerusalem by Adam Rasgon
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2024-05-15 07:46:54
Link from www.nytimes.com